Differences between flu and cold: symptoms, risks and prevention
Quick Look
The article explains the differences between flu and cold symptoms according to the CDC, tells you when to watch out for possible complications, and explains prevention measures such as vaccination and hand hygiene.
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Why It Matters
The article compares flu and colds, two common respiratory diseases, explaining the differences in symptoms and risks according to authoritative health sources.
The differences between flu and cold
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), fever or feeling feverish with chills, cough, sore throat, stuffy or runny nose, muscle aches, headache, and tiredness are common in the flu. Not all people with flu, however, develop a fever. Vomiting and diarrhea may occur, especially in children. In colds, however, a runny or congested nose, sneezing, sore throat and cough are more frequent. Headaches, mild muscle aches and, in some cases, a mild fever may also appear. In general, symptoms generally tend to be less intense than those of the flu.
When to pay more attention
In most cases, the flu resolves within a few days or within two weeks, although cough and tiredness can last longer. In some cases, however, complications such as pneumonia, sinusitis or ear infections can develop. The flu can also aggravate some chronic conditions, including asthma and heart disease. Among the people most at risk of complications are those over 65, children under 5, pregnant women and those who suffer from certain chronic diseases or have a weakened immune system. The CDM indicates among the warning signs difficulty breathing, persistent pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen, confusion, strong weakness and symptoms that improve and then return or worsen. In children, you should also pay attention to rapid or difficult breathing, bluish lips or face and signs of dehydration. In infants younger than 12 weeks of age, the CDC indicates any episode of fever as a warning sign.
How to prevent colds and flu
As Humanitas experts explain on the hospital website, prevention is important against both colds and flu. Against the latter, vaccination helps stimulate the production of specific antibodies and reduce the risk of getting sick. The flu vaccine must be repeated every year and is particularly recommended for the most at-risk categories. Furthermore, to prevent the onset of flu and colds, it is also useful to wash your hands frequently, cover your nose and mouth when you sneeze or cough and avoid crowded places when possible.
Open Questions
- How effective is the flu vaccine currently against circulating viral variants?
- Are there specific antiviral treatments for the common cold?
- What is the difference in contagiousness between the flu and a cold?
